Overview
Scottish Fencing requires all coaches, Welfare Officers, and relevant club personnel to complete appropriate Child Protection training to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all young people involved in the sport. Training must be renewed every three years to ensure knowledge remains current and aligned with best practice.
Child Wellbeing and Protection in Sport (CWPS)
Who Must Complete CWPS?
All Coaches
All Welfare Officers
CWPS is the recognised Child Protection qualification for those working in Scotland.
Course Format
The CWPS course is available online and in person (limited availability)
Full details of available CWPS courses can be found here. There are two parts to the CWPS course an on-line self assessment tutorial followed by a three hour workshop. You must complete the online tutorial before joining a workshop. Tutors will send information prior to the course starting.
You do not need to be a member of a particular sport or organisation to book a place. While some providers may offer discounts to members, the majority of courses are open to everyone. If a course is restricted to members, you will be notified during the booking process.
Renewal Requirements
Training must be renewed every three years.
When renewing, individuals may choose the CWPS Renewal Certificate, which Scottish Fencing recommends for both Coaches and Welfare Officers. This renewal option expands learning by including modules such as online safety and mental health for example.
Six‑Year Cycle
Every six years, you must complete the full CWPS course again, alternating between:
Year 0: Full CWPS
Year 3: CWPS Renewal Certificate
Year 6: Full CWPS (and so on)
Child Wellbeing and Protection Officer (CWPO) Training
All Welfare Officers must complete the CWPO course in addition to the CWPS training.
CWPO course details can be found here .
The CWPO qualification must also be renewed every three years by repeating the full course.
Child Protection Training for Committees and Board Members
sportscotland provides a short online Child Protection module specifically designed for:
Governing body board members
Club committee members
Club trustees
This module is easy to access, concise, and strongly recommended for anyone in a governance role.
Details on how to register for the committee Child Protection training can be found here (insert link).
